Tunnelling work is set to commence on the 11.84 Km long Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel project, marking a significant milestone in efforts to transform connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
The Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel project is being implemented by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA)
“Tunnelling is set to commence on India’s longest urban road tunnel, the 11.84 km Thane–Borivali Twin Tunnel project,” the MMRDA said in a post on X on Thursday, 2 April.
The project aims to provide a direct east–west link between Thane and Borivali, a route that currently takes 60 to 90 minutes due to congestion and the lack of a direct corridor.
Once operational, the tunnel is expected to drastically reduce travel time to around 15 minutes while easing pressure on key arterial routes such as Ghodbunder Road.
The project involves the construction of two parallel three-lane tunnels passing beneath the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, along with approach roads connecting Ghodbunder Road in Thane to the Western Express Highway in Borivali.
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The twin tunnels are being constructed using advanced Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) technology to minimise environmental impact and surface disruption in the eco-sensitive zone.
Nayak, India’s largest single-shield hard rock TBM, is set to lead tunnelling operations, while a second TBM, Arjuna, will also be deployed for excavation.
Each tunnel will feature three lanes, including a dedicated emergency lane, with cross-passages planned at intervals of 300 metres to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
The project will also incorporate modern systems such as advanced ventilation, firefighting infrastructure, smoke detection mechanisms and illuminated LED signage to ensure safe tunnel operations.
The project is among the most complex urban tunnelling initiatives in India and is targeted for completion by around 2028.
The overall project cost, including taxes and land acquisition, is estimated at around ₹18,838.40 crore
Once completed, the tunnel is expected to reduce congestion, lower vehicular emissions and deliver a faster, more efficient commute across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
